Exercise considerations and precautions for a diabetic
We present some exercise recommendations for a diabetic. The ideal is to wait before exercising to detect if your glucose level...
When you are a diabetic, exercising is a tool of your will to help control blood sugar values. But if you are overweight or obese and diabetic, exercise will also help you lose weight. As a diabetic, there are some additional considerations and precautions you should take before starting a weight loss exercise routine and once you’ve started, keep in mind the risks involved. We present some exercise recommendations for a diabetic. Ideally, wait before exercising to detect if your blood glucose level is too high or low. Failure to do so can be harmful to your body. Starting to exercise when your blood sugar is low is especially dangerous. It can cause your blood sugar to drop even further and become an emergency situation. As a precaution, if you are exercising at a gym, make sure the staff is aware. They must have instructions for emergency action as well as telephone numbers to call. If you walk or run on your own in outdoor environments, make it a habit to carry identification stating that you are diabetic along with your family’s phone number and instructions in case you go through a health crisis. Other tips about exercise with diabetes are the same as for everyone else. Stretch before and after each session, drink plenty of fluids and don’t push yourself too hard. It’s a good idea to keep track of your glycemic index before and after exercising. And if you feel dizzy during the routine check that out too. As foot problems are common in diabetics, wear appropriate shoes and socks. If you notice any sores on your feet that do not go away on their own, see your doctor immediately. If not healed they can lead to infection and other related complications. Therefore, although there are risks for a diabetic person when exercising, the benefits make it worth it. It is an effective way to control diabetes.